If you’re searching for a dessert that is not only delicious but also visually stunning, look no further than this Light and Fluffy Cherry Cream Delight. This recipe combines a soft, airy cake base with a creamy, smooth filling and a tangy cherry jam that adds just the right amount of sweetness. Topped with festive cranberries and rosemary sprigs, this dessert is perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to holiday feasts. Despite its sophisticated appearance, it is surprisingly easy to make, and the blend of flavors is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 4 chicken eggs, separated
• 120g sugar
• 1 lemon (to extract 40ml juice)
• 30ml vegetable oil
• 120g flour
• 4g baking powder

For the Cream:

• 350g soft cream cheese
• 70g powdered sugar
• 200ml cream (33% fat)

For the Cherry Jam:

• 50ml water
• 15g corn starch
• 300g cherries (fresh or frozen, pitted)
• 50g sugar

For Decoration:

• Several cranberries
• A few sprigs of rosemary

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

1. Separate the Eggs: Begin by separating the egg yolks from the whites. Place the yolks in one bowl and the whites in another.
2. Mix Egg Yolks and Sugar: In the bowl with egg yolks, add 120g of sugar. Use a mixer to beat until the mixture turns pale and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add Lemon Juice and Oil: Extract the juice from one lemon to get approximately 40ml. Add the lemon juice and 30ml of vegetable oil to the egg yolk mixture. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Sift and Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift together the 120g of flour and 4g of baking powder to eliminate any lumps. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until smooth and well combined.
5. Beat Egg Whites: Using a clean mixer, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This means the mixture should be able to hold its shape when you lift the beater.
6. Fold in the Egg Whites: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter, being careful not to deflate the mixture. This step is crucial for a light and airy cake texture.
7. Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Pour the batter into a lined baking pan, and smooth the surface. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, let the cake cool completely before cutting it.

2. Prepare the Cream:

1. Combine Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a separate bowl, add 350g of soft cream cheese and 70g of powdered sugar. Mix until the cream cheese is smooth and the sugar is fully incorporated.
2. Add the Cream: Gradually pour in 200ml of cream (33% fat), beating continuously until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. The cream should hold its shape but still be soft and spreadable.

3. Prepare the Cherry Jam:

1. Dissolve Corn Starch: In a small saucepan, combine 50ml of water and 15g of corn starch. Stir until the starch is completely dissolved, making sure there are no lumps.
2. Cook with Cherries and Sugar: Add 300g of pitted cherries and 50g of sugar to the saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. This process usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
3. Cool the Jam: Once the jam has thickened, remove it from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Transfer it to the refrigerator to chill until you are ready to assemble the dessert.

4. Assemble the Dessert:

1. Cut the Cake: After the cake has completely cooled, cut it into small squares or rounds. You can use a cookie cutter for uniform shapes or simply slice with a knife.
2. Layer the Dessert: Start layering the dessert by placing a piece of cake at the bottom. Add a generous spoonful of the cream mixture on top of the cake, followed by a dollop of cherry jam. Repeat the layers as desired, ensuring each bite has a balance of all components.
3. Final Touch: Finish with a layer of cream and a small amount of cherry jam on top for a beautiful presentation.

5. Decorate:

1. Festive Garnish: Place a few cranberries on top and add a sprig of rosemary for a touch of green. This not only adds a burst of color but also gives the dessert a festive look that’s perfect for holidays.
2. Serve and Enjoy: Serve chilled and enjoy the light, creamy, and tangy flavors that come together in this delightful treat.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Estimated):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 100mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use store-bought cherry jam instead of making it from scratch?
   • Yes, you can substitute homemade jam with store-bought cherry jam if you’re short on time. However, the homemade version provides a fresher and more natural flavor.
2. Can I make the dessert in advance?
   • Absolutely! You can prepare the components ahead of time. The cake, cream, and jam can all be made a day in advance. Simply store them separately and assemble them when ready to serve.
3. Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?
   • Yes, strawberries, raspberries, or even blueberries would work well as substitutes. Adjust the sugar in the jam according to the sweetness of the fruit you choose.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cherry Cream Delight:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, cream cheese, and cream are at room temperature. This helps them blend smoothly without lumps.
• Gentle Folding: When folding the egg whites into the batter, be gentle. This keeps the cake light and fluffy.
• Cool Completely Before Assembling: Make sure the cake and jam are completely cooled before assembling the dessert to avoid melting the cream.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover assembled dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the cake, cream, and cherry jam separately and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before assembling. This makes it easier if you’re preparing for a party or special occasion.
• Freezing: The cake can be baked and frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight bag. Thaw at room temperature before use.

Conclusion: This Light and Fluffy Cherry Cream Delight is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. The contrast of textures from the soft cake, creamy filling, and fruity jam creates a harmonious blend that will make it a crowd favorite. The festive garnish of cranberries and rosemary adds a beautiful touch, making it ideal for special occasions. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and yields impressive results. So go ahead, try it out, and let your taste buds dance in delight!